What is a key design requirement for ADA walkways regarding handrails?

A key design requirement for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) walkways is that handrails should be present for all ADA users, particularly when a walkway or ramp has a slope greater than 1:20 (5%). Handrails provide essential support and stability for individuals navigating these pathways, especially for those who may have mobility impairments. The presence of handrails ensures that users can maintain balance and safely traverse inclines.

While there may be specific scenarios where handrails are not strictly mandated, such as low slopes, the overarching guideline emphasizes their importance in creating accessible environments. Handrails not only offer physical assistance but also enhance user confidence in maneuvering through spaces that might otherwise be challenging.

The other answers propose options that either diminish the necessity of handrails or incorrectly substitute them with alternatives, which does not align with ADA requirements. Therefore, the acknowledgment that handrails should be an integral part of the design for all ADA users reinforces their crucial role in ensuring accessibility and safety in public spaces.